Board of Directors
Staff
Marlene Farrell
Executive Director
Marlene grew up in Virginia and, from an early age, felt a curiosity about and devotion to wild things, from ants to African lions. This led to a Bachelor’s and Master’s, focusing on behavioral ecology. Her field work was abroad as well as in Washington, her home since 2000. Her path detoured while raising a family into freelance writing, coaching, and nonprofit work.
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Marlene loves writing about environmental themes, through articles and creative writing. Her coaching of children in running and Nordic skiing has been driven by a desire to share a love of movement and connection with the outdoors. She has worked for several nonprofits in Leavenworth, and is thrilled to join Sustainable NCW. To discover, share and implement ways to tread lightly, personally and collectively, is serious and joyful work for Marlene.
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She gets outside every day, often with family and friends, and she loves running, backpacking, Nordic skiing and sailing.
Freyja Bourke
Outreach & Education Coordinator
Originally from Belfast, Northern Ireland, Freyja holds a degree in English Literature from Queen’s University Belfast. With a lifelong passion for the outdoors and environmental advocacy, she spent her early years volunteering and campaigning for a healthier planet.
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Freyja moved to the Leavenworth area four years ago to immerse herself more deeply in nature and community. Since then, she has been leading local youth ski programs, sharing her enthusiasm for outdoor adventure with the next generation. Now, as the Outreach and Education Coordinator at Sustainable NCW, she’s excited to combine her love for the environment with community engagement.
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In her free time, Freyja enjoys skiing, biking, surfing, and making music.